Loss Of Individuality In George Saunders By George Saunders

George Saunders' Jon showcases an adversarial relationship between corporations and individuality. However, this story is unique because the characters are free to leave "the facility" whenever they wish. Another aspect unique to this story is that while conformity is encouraged, it is ultimately not mandated, meaning that the characters' loss of self-identity is, yes, partly due to the highly manufactured environment they find themselves within, but also due to their feelings of insecurity in exploring the unknown. Unlike other texts where individuality is extinguished by an all-powerful state or entity, Saunders’ portrayal showcases people who are willing to give up their individuality in exchange for the security provided by the facility. I believe Saunders’ portrayal of how people lose their individuality is ultimately far more terrifying because the characters are also to blame for their loss of identity.

This dynamic provides the individuals only a frail veneer of self-fulfillment that the facility exploits to maximize its occupants' economic value. This lopsided power dynamic is highlighted by the characters' failure to realize that their value to the facility only comes from the work they can complete. For instance, when Jon expresses his intention to leave the facility, the Coordinators'
If these relationships are so regulated, why do Carolyn, Jon, Josh, and Ruthie face no consequences when they have children? Mr. Slippen ultimately serves a beneficial role in the story, helping Jon see the'real world' and urging him to leave. If he— albeit begrudgingly— knows the system is terrible, why does Saunders not have Slippen telling the others to leave as well? Why does Mr. Slippen's response to baby Amber's death feel artificial? What social commentary is Saunders trying to provide by having the characters constantly take